Southampton Social Workers Go On Strike

Hundreds of Social Care staff at Southampton City Council have gone on strike for 7 days (starting 3rd August.)

They’ve been joined by more than 50 staff from Fostering and Adoption services, as part of an ongoing row over pay cuts.

Along with bin men and street cleaners, who have also walked out, they’ll hold a rally marching to the Civic Offices on August 3rd.

UNISON Branch Secretary, Mike Tucker, said:

"Business Support staff in the Safeguarding Division are just the latest group to strike in opposition to pay cuts. The campaign of industrial action will continue until the Council reaches a fair settlement with its workforce."

Councillor Jeremy Moulton, deputy leader of Southampton City Council and cabinet member for Children’s Services said:

“The safety of vulnerable children and adults is our highest priority and Southampton City Council is doing everything possible to ensure they remain safe and protected during this period of industrial action.

"The council has negotiated with the unions for a number of exemptions to the industrial action to ensure people remain safe. Along with the contingencies in place the council will be able to operate a safeguarding service in the city.

"Whilst we strongly disagree with the union decision to bring social workers out on strike, we will continue talks with the trade unions to try and bring an end to industrial action and find common ground and a way forward.”